Actor Hakeemshady Mohamed (Hakeem) is expected to attend the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival to support the premiere of the film, “Submergence”. The Somali refugee actor starred as the lead antagonist, Amir Yusuf, in the Wim Wenders directed romantic thriller. The festival will be held from September 7-17 in Toronto, Canada.

“I was truly excited about the character of Amir Yusuf for many reasons,” Hakeem was quoted as saying. “I felt extremely connected to the character.” Hakeem went on to say that he fell in love with the project immediately upon reading it and that it was the most challenging character he has played to date.

In the movie, Hakeem is cast as a villain in a jihadist terrorist hostage situation set in Somalia. The subject matter hits close to home. Hakeem himself was born in war-torn Somalia. He survived among thousands of refugees from Uganda, South Sudan, and Rwanda. The now thirty-eight-year-old emerged from the horrendous circumstances to pursue as acting and filmmaking career in the United States. He has played in “WebGirl”, “Default”, “Blue Eyes” and numerous other movies.

“Submergence” is a multi-layered story that stars James McAvoy and Award Winner Alicia Vikander. In the story, some profound concerns of life are addressed. The movie is directed by Wim Wenders and produced by Cameron Lamb. The film is based on the novel of the same name written by journalist J.M. Ledgard. It was filmed in Spain, France, Germany, and East Africa and is a Neue Road Movie.

After debuting in Toronto in the section of “Special Presentations”, “Submergence” will open at the 65th San Sabastian Film Festival on September 22 where it will compete for the top Golden Shell award in the Official Section.

When asked his thoughts on performing in the epic romance, Hakeem said that he is humbled. He stated that he is excited to attend the Toronto festival and is honored to promote the movie there.

Hakeem said he instantly connected with the character when he auditioned for the role. Wanders liked what he saw and Hakeem was awarded the spot.

Hakeem is recognized as being a talented and hard-working up-and-coming actor and director with humble roots who has overcome much to get to where he is today.

To find out details about the film, “Submergence”, visit the IMBD website. More can be found about Hakeem and his acting and filmmaking career on the IMBD site as well.